Local entertainment will receive a boost, thanks to Royalties for Regions investment in Geraldton’s Queens Park Theatre.

National WA Member of Parliament Paul Brown MP said the Queens Park Theatre was one of seven projects across regional WA to share in more than $940,000 in funding from the Regional Venues Improvement Fund.

“Access to high quality entertainment is a really important part of creating sustainable and vibrant regional communities,” Mr Brown said.

“Investing in arts venues is essential in attracting the entertainment that residents and visitors to regional WA enjoy.”

Mr Brown said the Queens Park Theatre would receive $102,221 to upgrade the audio mixing console, digital signage, cinema digital projector, lighting and wireless communications.

“The Queens Park Theatre is a tremendous asset to the local community and this funding will complement the current major refurbishment works being undertaken by the City of Greater Geraldton,” Mr Brown said.

Regional Development Minister Terry Redman said creating opportunities for culture and the arts will support economic development and build vibrant communities in regional WA.

“This investment will ensure regional arts organisations, artists and arts workers have the necessary support to deliver a variety of experiences to our regional communities,” Mr Redman said.

The second round of grants open in March and focus on improving the functionality of regional performing arts venues and upgrading technical equipment.

The Regional Venues Improvement Fund is part of the $24 million Creative Regions program, funded by Royalties for Regions, to deliver greater investment in regional arts and culture initiatives.

For more information visit www.dva.wa.gov.au or www.biggerpicture.regions.wa.gov.au